David Keppel, facilities manager and supervisor of buildings and grounds at Palisades School District, has been approved as Parkland's director of school services, effective Jan. 13, 2014.

His annual salary will be $112,000.

He replaces Mark Lapos who recently left the district to take a position with a utility firm.

Former longtime employee Dale Reitz came out of retirement to fulfill the duties until a new person would be available.

He will employ his experience to guide Keppel and provide an overview of responsibilities involved in the job.

A graduate of Dieruff High School and Lehigh Carbon Community College, Keppel resides in Upper Macungie Township. His two children attended Parkland.

At Palisades, Keppel supervised a $25-million renovation of the high school, and $6 million and $10 million renovations at two elementary schools, plus a $6 million renovation of the all-weather track and turf field complex.

Keppel also was facility manager for Core States Bank and director of Environmental Services for Valley Manor Nursing Center.

At the Dec. 3 board meeting, Superintendent Richard Sniscak reported Keppel stood out in the selection process in which 30 applications were received, 13 individuals were interviewed, and the final choice was made from three persons who were called back for second interviews.

"We were impressed by his professionalism and his background as well as his analytical skills, communication skills, and his overall interpersonal skills," Sniscak said. "Based upon his previous experiences and comments from his references, we believe David will have a smooth transition to his new assignment in the Parkland School District.

"It will be great to have someone with his experience join our team."

Keppel said he is absolutely looking forward to starting his new job.

"I'm very excited about this opportunity," Keppel said. "Our family has always had a great experience with Parkland. This is a great opportunity for me."

Sniscak recognized Reitz's role in Keppel's orientation.

"No greater tutor or mentor could be found for David than Dale Reitz," Sniscak said.